1. How do you think Newcastle's season went?
Its fair to say Newcastle's season last year was disappointing, a disrupted pre season with no top class warm up games after a late change in management got us off to a bad start which we never fully recovered from. It's a shame that we couldn't build on a promising season the year before. But the false start combined with some ill-timed high profile injuries meant we couldn't compete as we would have like in this increasingly strong premiership.
2. Are you looking forward to playing for Sale this new season?
I am extremely excited at the prospect of pulling on a Sharks shirt. The training so far has been of the highest level. Steve Diamond has put together a dangerous squad and with the work he and the management have been doing behind scenes for the players, we are all very eager to get the campaign started.
3. Sale have alot of new players arriving this must be exciting as everyone will be wanting to mix and get to know all the new players?
It is an exciting time when there is a fresh approach to a squad. There are a few stalwarts from the past that remain to help the recruitments into the Sale way, but with the new players brings new ambition. The boys have been getting together to explore the local surrounds, which usually ends up in a coffee shop!
4. Did you enjoy your time at Newcastle and what memories will you bring with you?
I had a great time at Newcastle, it's a wonderful city and the people are fantastic. I would recommend anyone to visit or even stay. But they will have to work for the mars bars a few others and I received after the Falcons games as ritual from certain supporters. Also I tasted my first home cooked Yorkshire pudding. This has converted a southerner to its wonders after realising Aunt Bessie's doesn't compare.
5. What has been your career highlight so far?
My career highlight was definitely running out to play New Zealand in an England Sevens shirt down in the 'Cake Tin' in Wellington. The atmosphere was electric.
6. Who is your rugby hero and why?
Jeff Wilson, he could do everything, even play cricket. I remember most, him throwing himself over his opposite number at full stride to catch the ball and therefore bringing himself firmly back to ground with a bump! A great winger to watch and also a blonde.
7. How do you think England will do in the Rugby World Cup?
I am confident England will be right in the mix at the end of the World Cup. Of course the squad is not as strong as 2003 but it seems a little more settled of late and started to show some good promise in the Autumn internationals and Six nations. The blend of experience and youthful exuberance is much more balanced. As long as we can avoid New Zealand and hold back Australia I wouldn't be surprised to see another final for the boys.
8. If you could play in the same team as any other rugby player who would it be and why?
Other than the Sale players? I wouldn't mind running off Sonny Bill at the moment, but I have to go with Quade Cooper, he seems to have the keys to unlock defences right now and is the most exciting attacking ten around.
9. What tips would you give to youngsters?
All that boring stuff you are told to do, like pre-habilitation, hydration and extras really does come to fruition. It's about staying injury free as you aren't getting better on the sidelines, so the foundations laid early in your career will really pay dividends when the body is not so robust.
10. Who is the best player you have played with?
Andrew Mehrtens.
11. What is the greatest match you have played in?
Llanelli V Harlequins Heineken Cup, last game at Stradey Park. We were down 20 points at half time, one of the boys put in the best half time speech's I have ever heard and we went on to turn it around into a win.
12. Who is the toughest player you have played against?
I never played against him but George Harder is one of the hardest players I have ever played with, joy to watch.
13. How did you start playing rugby?
All my elder brothers played at the local club, so after watching them every Sunday I couldn't wait to get started myself at the age of 6.
14. What is the best stadium you have played in?
Hong Kong stadium
15. Has there been any coaches or players who have inspired you during your career?
Collin Osborne, my academy coach at Harlequins took me through the transition of school boy player in to professional player where a lot of people stumble. There have been others along the way be he certainly has had the biggest influence on me.
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination? Thailand
Favourite food? Fizzy laces
Favourite movies? 300
Favourite band/artist? Dire Staits
Hero (who isn't in rugby)? Rocky Balboa
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Portsmouth Fc
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? Study for degree, play golf, cinema.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk? It's a great website where I can get the latest rugby news from around the world. A simple layout, with a easily readable style of writing perfect for keeping up to date and in the know.